CoachP

Effect

Muscle retention

Holding on to, or regaining, muscle during illness, injury or wasting. Several anabolic steroids were used medically for this.

4 compounds in the guide

Educational only. A summary of published research, not medical advice or a recommendation. No doses are listed. Compounds are listed from the strongest evidence to the weakest. Being listed isn't a recommendation.

Related pathways

The receptors and pathways behind this effect.

Compounds

  • Nandrolone

    Previously approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    An injectable steroid closely related to testosterone (a “19-nor” steroid), once used medically to treat anemia and muscle wasting.

  • Oxandrolone

    Previously approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    An oral steroid often described as “mild”, though its US approval was pulled in 2023 and it still strains the liver and cholesterol.

  • Oxymetholone

    FDA-approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    A strong oral steroid used medically for certain anemias, known in bodybuilding for rapid weight and water gain.

  • Methenolone

    Not approved

    Anabolic steroids · Early or small human studies

    A DHT-derived steroid, injected or taken as a tablet, often described by users as mild, though it still shuts down natural testosterone and worsens cholesterol.

Other effects